Tuesday, June 14, 2011

How to have a happy, simple life

In my previous life {prior to my quest for a simple life} I was so stressed out, I was actually being treated for physical ailments! I let myself get so frazzled, that I needed medical care and medication. That sucked! It was time for a change.I have a few tips:*start a gratitude journal. You don't have to write in it every day, just when you feel overwhelming gratitude about something/someone.*take time to just sit. Listen to nature, birds,kids laughter, the washing machine...whatever. Just still your mind and relax.*bake more. There's nothing better than your family coming home and seeing/smelling something yummy and homemade!*grow your own veggies and/or herbs. Imagine running out of basil. No worries, just walk outside and snip some. Easy.*read your Bible and make time for daily devos.*pray.*spend time with loved ones. Really engage in an activity with them. Don't iron while your kids talk. Sit down and listen. The iron won't go anywhere.*exercise. You will relieve so much stress simply by walking.*eliminate debt. And don't create new debt.*smile more. Frown less.*clip coupons. Write a budget.*take time to plan your menu. Follow your grocery budget. *build your savings. Also your retirement.*get a hammock. Schedule time to lay in it. {mine just broke, must go to the flea market and find another}*do not let hate, greed or envy in your life. Avoid gossip. *be good to whomever you encounter. Donate whatever you have available.{money, goods, time}